HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron Magnetic Jade each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is a linear switch known for its lighter actuation force, delivering a silky smooth feel paired with a distinctly clacky sound profile that appeals to those who thrive on a bright auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches utilize Hall Effect technology, providing an innovative and superior typing experience with enhanced acoustics that makes them a preferred choice for enthusiasts looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. While both switches boast a clacky sound that adds flair to typing, the HMX Cloud offers a more traditional linear experience, whereas the Magnetic Jade pushes the envelope with its advanced technology and acoustic properties. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a notable distinction arises in their top housing compositions. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deep and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's relatively softer plastic properties, which allow it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is inherently stiffer, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material elevation not only impacts the acoustic qualities of the switch but is also advantageous for users who prioritize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for more vibrant illumination.
Both the Cloud - 50g and the Magnetic Jade use nylon for their bottom housing components, resulting in a shared acoustic characteristic. The use of nylon in both switches fosters a deeper and fuller sound, further enhancing the tactile experience while typing. Since the bottom housing plays a pivotal role in the overall feel and sound when the key bottoms out, the Cloud - 50g and Magnetic Jade will produce similar results in this aspect. This uniformity is especially notable, as users will experience a consistent auditory feedback when pressing down on either switch, emphasizing the resonance that nylon brings to the bottom housing.
Overall, the division in materials between the top and bottom housings of these switches leads to a unique interaction of acoustic profiles. The Cloud - 50g decides on a softer and warmer sound profile due to its nylon top, while the Magnetic Jade elicits a clearer and more resonant sound through its polycarbonate top housing. When bottoming out, the nylon’s sound absorption and tactile response will be equally pronounced in both switches. Therefore, while the overall sound experience differs when keys are released, the bottom-out feel of these switches remains cohesive due to their shared nylon bottom composition, allowing users to engage with both switches in a familiar manner.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that may be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which can provide a more effortless keystroke, while its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 55 grams. This means that while the Magnetic Jade is lighter in actuation, it requires more force to bottom out compared to the Cloud - 50g. Overall, those seeking a lighter feel might find the Magnetic Jade more appealing, especially for the initial keystroke, while the Cloud - 50g may cater to users who prefer a bit more resistance when fully pressing down.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there is a noticeable difference in their specifications. The HMX Cloud, with a travel distance of 3.9 mm, offers a more pronounced keystroke experience, which some users may find comforting and satisfying for typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, aligning more with the trend towards quicker response times favored by many gamers. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Magnetic Jade would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if you appreciate a deeper key press and a more substantial feel, the Cloud - 50g might be more suitable. Ultimately, the Cloud offers the longer travel distance, while the Magnetic Jade presents the shorter option, which may cater to different user preferences depending on their typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 50g for $2.99.
The Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile, making them ideal choices for enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. Their clacky nature fosters an engaging typing experience, as both switches produce a satisfying acoustic response with each keystroke. It’s important to note, however, that the overall sound can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, meaning while they share a similar auditory signature, individual setups may result in varied acoustic outcomes.
When examining the feel of these switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g offers a silky smooth experience, designed to provide a pleasant tactile sensation while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are known for delivering a superior typing experience, though specific details about their tactile qualities are less defined. Although the information does not specify their feel, they are reputed for enhancing the overall touch feedback in the context of hall effect setups, which hints at a potentially smooth and engaging tactile experience akin to that of the Cloud - 50g.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches excel in providing a bright and clacky sound that appeals to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloud - 50g is noted for its silky smooth typing feel, while the Magnetic Jade's tactile qualities are suggested to contribute to an improved overall experience, though they remain somewhat vague. Each switch boasts unique attributes, yet they cater to similar preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and tactile characteristics while achieving an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and seek a smooth, clacky experience that is perfect for spirited typing sessions, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent option. Its 50-gram bottom out force contributes to a quick and effortless keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you are looking for a bit more resistance and desire a switch with a slightly bolder sound profile, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, with its 55-gram bottom out force, is worth considering. This switch not only enhances acoustic feedback but also provides a satisfying tactile response that can elevate your typing experience. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the lighter, smoother feel of the Cloud - 50g or the deeper, more pronounced feedback of the Magnetic Jade, either choice will contribute to your mechanical keyboard journey in its unique way.
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